When a group of us set out to establish Pacific Northwest Meditation, it came from a place of a deep longing to practice in a community that embodies openness, and challenges structures and systems that are obstructions to awakening. We knew it would require tremendous effort to go against the stream; swimming back to what lies at the core of the Buddha’s teachings--not conforming, not settling for mediocracy, but questioning everything to arrive at our own understanding of the truth of how things really are. We commit ourselves to going against the stream of suffering and ignorance. So as we build this new space with fresh eyes and healing hearts, we invite you to join us in discovering this new paradigm for what it means to be the beloved sangha (a community of liked-minded practitioners). We operate on the level of sameness. We practice deep listening. We honor and respect differences.

When we are not okay with the status quo, how do we rebel, as practitioners of peace? What is the art of insubordination that will lead to positive, wholesome results that will in turn benefit the many? Some might think that meditation makes us passive. Meditation is love and right action. When we come to know this practice for ourselves, our practice reveals to us how to engage with courage, with confidence, with harmony, and with effectiveness.